Kim Sang-sik: Vietnam’s 2nd Most Influential Figure on Social Media

March 25, 2026 Alex Carter - Sports Editor Sport

Kim Sang-sik, the South Korean manager of the Vietnam national football team, has risen to become the second most influential figure in Vietnam across all social media platforms, according to a recent report by Chosun Ilbo. The rapid ascent in popularity reflects a remarkable turnaround for the coach, who faced professional setbacks in his home country before finding success in Southeast Asia.

Just over a year ago, Kim Sang-sik was nearing a low point in his career after leaving his position as coach of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, a prominent South Korean club. His appointment as manager of Vietnam in 2024 marked a significant shift and he quickly began to demonstrate his managerial prowess. He currently also manages the Vietnam U23 team.

Kim Sang-sik’s impact has been particularly notable in Vietnam’s recent successes. In January 2026, he led the Vietnam U-23 team to a historic bronze medal victory at the AFC U-23 Asian Cup, defeating South Korea in the process. This achievement followed Vietnam’s triumph in the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup, secured in Bangkok. These victories have cemented his status as a highly respected figure in Vietnamese football, with some considering him one of the greatest managers in the nation’s history.

Prior to his success with Vietnam, Kim Sang-sik enjoyed a distinguished playing career as a centre-back and defensive midfielder, also representing the South Korea national team. He transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant manager at Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors from 2013 to 2020 before taking the helm as head coach until 2023. During his time with Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma as a player, he contributed to consecutive K League championships in 2001 and 2002, and again in 2006.

Vietnam’s recent successes under Kim Sang-sik extend beyond the ASEAN Cup, including a victory at the 2025 SEA Games and the ASEAN U-23 Championship, also in 2025. These achievements have fueled the surge in his social media influence and solidified his position as a key figure in Vietnamese sports. The Vietnam Football Federation has not yet commented on the implications of Kim Sang-sik’s growing popularity or future plans for the national team.